The tribal mind: Week 44

This blog is now a heritage item -- worth studying but no longer current. For the latest discussion on TV trends, click here

Updated 10 am, Sunday November 4.
Nine won the week, but only just, averaging 28.7 per cent of the prime time audience to Seven's 28.5, while Ten felt its Australian Idol audience slipping away and managed just 21.0 per cent, the ABC got 17.0 per cent and SBS got 4.8 per cent. Seven got a boost from Better Homes and Gardens on Friday but Nine got a longer boost, at least in Sydney and Brisbane, from the rugby league on Saturday (see tables below)

Updated 10 am, Thursday November 2.
The ratings table below will answer five key questions this column has raised about the current state of TV programming:
1 Is Ten's new youth drama Tripping Over a hit or a flop? (Background: last week it attracted 1.3 million).
2 How will Border Security rate when moved from its Tuesday comfort zone? (Average Tuesday audience 2.0 million).
3 Will BS take viewers from Thank God You're Here? (TGYH averages 1.7 million).
4 Will Criminal Minds find a new audience in an earlier timeslot on a different night? (On Mondays at 9.40 it attracts 1.1 million).
5 How will the publicity about axing affect the ratings for The Glasshouse? (Last week it got 701,000).

Nine won Wednesday with 29.0 per cent of the prime time audience, while Seven got 26.9, Ten got 24.4, ABC got 16.0 and SBS got 3.6.

Updated 10 am, Wednesday November 1.
Sometimes a show does well because of its timeslot rather than because of any special merits of its own. The test of whether Border Security (average audience 2 million) is one of those shows will be tonight, when Channel Seven moves it out of its traditional Tuesday comfort zone into competition with Ten's biggest hit of the year, Thank God You're Here (average audience 1.7 million). Care to offer a bet on how well it will do?

Updated 10 am, Tuesday October 31Grey's Anatomy went out with its biggest audience ever -- 1.96 million in the mainland capitals, suggesting that if Channel Seven had continued with episodes from the new US season, it might just have knocked Channel Nine off the number one spot for the year. It's hard to imagine Criminal Minds getting anywhere near that figure when it moves in the Grey's timeslot next week.

Perhaps Seven feels it doesn't need to try any more. It put out a release yesterday saying that for the ratings year so far (excluding Commonwealth Games) it has averaged 1,216,481 viewers a night, while Nine has averaged 1,215,273 viewers a night. The difference would have been greater with more Grey's.

Seven won Monday with 32.1 per cent of the prime time audience, while Nine got 25.3, Ten got 20.6, ABC got 15.9 and SBS got 6.2.

Updated 10 am, Monday October 30
The collapse of Channel Nine's Overhaul (down from a pathetic 869,000 viewers last week to 642,000 last night) could symbolise at least three things: the end of the "lifestyle" fad; the end of the makeover fad; and the end of the celebrity fad.

Background: Last year, Celebrity Overhaul attracted 1.5 million viewers, but after Dancing on Ice scraped the last dregs from the bottom of the celebrity barrel earlier this year, Nine found a bunch of ordinary fatties and hoped they might interest the 1.3 million who had followed Ten's The Biggest Loser. Instead, (celeb-free) Overhaul became the biggest loser of the week. Given Nine's chronic impatience, we're taking bets on how soon Overhaul will move to an insomniac timeslot or disappear altogether.

Nevertheless, Nine won Sunday (thanks to CSI) with 30.9 per cent of the prime time audience, while Ten got 27.9 per cent (thanks to Idol and the ARIAs), Seven got 21.4, ABC got 14.5 and SBS got 5.2.

Updated 4pm Sunday October 29
An audience of 1.29 million puts Ten's hot new drama Tripping Over on the knife edge between hit and flop. If its audience goes up even a bit this week, we'll say it's a triumph for Australian creativity -- the new SeaChange or Secret Life of Us. If the audience drops even a bit, we can blame the English co-producers for failing to undertand Australian tastes.

What's puzzling Channel Ten is that a quarter of the people who watched Thank God You're Here in the hour before Tripping Over on Wednesday didn't stay with the new drama. Most likely they were children sent to bed by parents protecting them from nudity, swearing and drugging.

Tripping equalled the audience of Seven's All Saints and easily beat Mcleod's Daughters, which managed only 1.15 million despite Nine's efforts to sex it up. But it would not need to lose too many viewers to find itself joining The Alice, Last Man Standing and Headland in the wastebasket of Great Australian "could-have-beens".

Nine and Seven both won the week, each averaging 27.8 per cent of the prime time audience, while Ten got 22.4 per cent, ABC got 16.9 per cent, and SBS got 5.1 per cent.

This column needs to correct a false impression we gave last Monday. Tonight is the season finale of Greys Anatomy and Seven will not be continuing with episodes from the new US season. They should, but they have decided not to. Instead they're moving Criminal Minds into the 8.40 slot.

LATEST COMMENTS

9 and 7 both won the week? does that mean that they both get a week added to their total number of weeks won or do they both get half or what happens?

Posted by: brendon on October 29, 2006 10:14 PM

So why don't they go to the next decimal place to decide the winner? It is highly unlikely they would be the same so at least we would have one winner and not a mickey mouse solution.

Posted by: Ian on October 29, 2006 11:29 PM

Interesting numbers as always, TM.
Although, what surprises me, is the unusually large downward revision of the numbers for the Bourne Supremacy for last Sunday.
The preliminary figures you reported had 1.56 million viewers, and the revised amount of 1.47 million. What happened there? ;-)

Tribal Mind replies: Australian Idol must have run overtime, so Bourne was getting the benefit of AI's figures.

Posted by: James on October 30, 2006 6:19 AM

You mean last week's Grey's wasn't the finale? As far as cliffhangers go, it was a doozy... had season finale written all over it... how are they going to top that this week?
As for Seven deciding not to run next season's eps... sigh. Can feel non-rating season coming on earlier than ever this year... thank god for tripping over, which will partly fill the void.

Posted by: SJ on October 30, 2006 9:47 AM

Overhaul never did 1.5 million.

Posted by: Daniel on October 30, 2006 10:10 AM

Thanks TM for the clarification about Greys. Talk about touch and go there. As it doesn't really concern me as I am a downloader, I've got a couple of friends excited of the possibility that they were going straight into the Season 3.
Question for the downloaders, was there an episode of Greys last week in the States? Can't seam to find any seeds on uTorrent?????

Posted by: SC on October 30, 2006 10:16 AM

The new Yasmin??? Bugger...
My name is Caroline Hutchinson, I'm actually one of the fatties on Overhaul! Just writing to defend
our lardy arses...
Look, we really are quite a lovely lot of chubsterst and we've worked incredibly hard...so don't give up on us yet...
And seriously...I must insist you immediately cease with the Yasmin....my work mates are enjoying it way way WAY too much....

Posted by: Caroline Hutchinson on October 30, 2006 11:48 AM

to SC:

most shows on thursday were repeats because of some sport event, there was no new ER, Survivor, Greys or CSI. Interesting that the CSI repeat was about 4m ahead of a Greys repeat though.

Posted by: William on October 30, 2006 11:53 AM

Sunday night tv delivered 2 suprises for me this week. The first, abc sharing 4 shows in the top 15, with both ch 9 & ch 7, and ahead of ch 10 with 3 shows. The other suprise was the total number of local productions on the list.
The number of local productions making up the top 21 shows for last week is also encouraging. While some of the local productions, on both lists, are not great, they are continuing to keep the local industry alive.
As yet, not an outright threat for the top spot each week, the abc are slowly eating into the individual fta's ability to win each night, and each week.
If the abc continue to occupy more places in the top 15, the fta's will probably rejig the distribution and selection criteria for their people meters to correct this.

Posted by: TGO on October 30, 2006 12:09 PM

Idol only got 1.3 million last night because not only it was up against The Real Seachange/Medical Emergency double on Seven, but also many people stayed outdoors (yesterday was the first day of daylight saving). Expect Idol performance show to bounce back next week.

Posted by: johnson on October 30, 2006 12:11 PM

Posted by: William at October 30, 2006 11:53 AM
Thanks William for that bit of info. Maybe those who watched to repeat of CSI weren't fans of baseball...

Posted by: SC on October 30, 2006 12:26 PM

The networks should expect a slight drop in early evening programming now that daylight saving has started. People will be inclined to stay outdoors longer.

Posted by: pete on October 30, 2006 12:27 PM

Grey's Anatamy would've got a lower result in reruns (in the US) because they encore the show anyway on a Friday Night! Plus it's serialized, since the dawn of time Standalone shows repeat better than Serialized Dramas.

Any idea of what this show ten is promoting for summer is about - looks to involve dancing.

Posted by: Jimmy James on October 30, 2006 12:42 PM

Sorry Caroline, the show sucks. Hope you enjoyed your 3 mins. bye bye

Posted by: Lucas on October 30, 2006 1:04 PM

Dont forget, TGO, that channel 10 only had 2 shows on from 6:30-10:45, so theyre not going to be prominent in the list.

And to Caroline, good luck on losing the weight, but sorry, I dont wanna watch you do it.

Posted by: Mat on October 30, 2006 1:19 PM

TM wrote: "Celebrity Overhaul attracted 1.5 million viewers, but after Dancing on Ice scraped the last dregs from the bottom of the celebrity barrel earlier this year, Nine found a bunch of ordinary fatties and hoped they might interest the 1.3 million who had followed Ten's The Biggest Loser."

I don't think it makes sense to link the original Celebrity Overhaul with Dancing on Ice as a cause for Overhaul's poor ratings. The simple fact is that Celebrity Overhaul was entertaining (I even watched it) because of the people (celebs) that were in it. It was fun to see how they would take on the challenge. Whereas, for Overhaul, who really gives a fig about some nameless lardarses trying to lose weight? It has zero appeal, which is reflected in the figures.

Posted by: damien on October 30, 2006 2:00 PM

Mat, I take your point, ch 10 can well be pleased with both shows making the top 5. They maintained their audience numbers with only 6k difference between the 2 shows. It was a well targeted assualt of their core demographic.

Meanwhile, over at ch 7, a Today Tonight film crew has been booted off a P&O cruise ship in Vanuatu.

G'day TM,
Any news on how the Tripping Over encore went last night after the ARIA (starting at 10:45pm on Ten)?
When channels usually show encores does that mean they're desperate for viewers of the show in general or just have some time to fill?
I remember Seven showing (I think it was) Desperate Housewives "encores" twice in the same week for the first episode and Ten showed The Surgeon first episode encore as well.

Tribal MInd replies: TO encore got 462,000. If you add that to the original 1.3 million it looks like a great audience, but it may have been some of the same people trying to se the nudity again.

Posted by: Martin Lester on October 30, 2006 2:44 PM

I haven't seen Channel 10s ads for summer but i would guess if it involves Dancing that it is a version of the American show, So you think you can dance, which is like a dance version of idol

Posted by: jak on October 30, 2006 3:42 PM

TM does ch 9 cut/edit segments in shows like the apprentice?

Tribal Mind replies: Probably.

Posted by: don on October 30, 2006 5:09 PM

i just loved 'operatunity' on ABC.
great show....well done!

Posted by: lily on October 30, 2006 5:30 PM

Whatever happened to the new season of 4400? First week (screened 22/10/06 on 10) was a recap of seasons 1 & 2 - fair enough. Then this week's ep was bumped for a repeat of Tossing Over - sorry - 'Tripping Over'. Maybe the Foxtel SciFi channel might be able to shed some light - either that, or I import the DVD from the States for uninterrupted viewing.

Posted by: Wixy Gosford on October 30, 2006 8:54 PM

Can someoneexplain how the ARIA's can't even crack 1.3 mill, yet Logies Red Carpet is watch by about 2mill people.
How exactly are the Logies and the aria's significantly different that one rates its pants off, while the other rates about the same as Tripping Over?
I mean I imagine the logies has the same demographics the arias as Tv Week isn't exactly read by grannies.
Could the difference simply be account by the network it's on?

Tribal Mind replies: The Logies are about television programs that appeal to people between 5 and 90. They may not read TV Week or vote for the winners, but they watch TV. The ARIAs are about music that appeals mostly to people under 40.

Posted by: Chung on October 30, 2006 11:52 PM

How amazing was last's night GA?! What an excellent hour of television. Channel 7 should be ashamed that they are not showing the new season. The show they advertised for taking over Criminal Minds at 9:40 on a Monday looks like absolute crap and I certainly won't be watching it, nor will I be watching Criminal Minds. I'd prefer to watch repeats of GA if not the new eps. I'm so sick of crime shows I just refuse to watch them, even if that means i watch a dvd instead. That programming makes no sense - with GA you get people who would probably watch DH, but it is not a similar audience to Criminal Minds. Stupid, channel 7. All you have done is make me determined to download now. I certainly won't be staying loyal to the timeslot when you put more of the same 'crime shows' that are a dime a dozen these days.

Posted by: beckala on October 31, 2006 7:59 AM

Axle Whitehead has been sacked from Channel 10's Video Hits after exposing himself on stage Sunday night. It was not shown on TV though

Posted by: Scoop on October 31, 2006 9:09 AM

Rove's contract with Ch10 expires at the end of the year, and there is talk that Ch10 are not impressed with the figures for Rove Live and will possibly not renew for 2007.

Problem for them is that Rove Enterprises makes a number of their other shows (ARIA's etc) and they are hoping not to lose them.

Posted by: pete on October 31, 2006 9:28 AM

Idol seems to have dropped without Lisa.. down to 1.3m on Sunday and Monday.

Posted by: Ian on October 31, 2006 10:22 AM

Beckala wrote: I'm so sick of crime shows I just refuse to watch them, even if that means i watch a dvd instead.
Americans are so addicted to crime shows that Criminal Minds has been number 1 on its night in the States this season - usually beating Lost in the same time slot by 30 to 50,000 viewers. CSI Miami is tripling Studio 60's viewership. If that keeps up we will get more not less crime shows in the next couple of years. Any show that ventures away from a hospital or crime lab will be killed before the pilot stage.

Posted by: Cat on October 31, 2006 10:31 AM

Would have been even more amazing to see what the ratings would have been if the 'true' fans hadn't already gotten their Series 2 DVDs from the US... with three episodes to run (if shipped on pre-order from Amazon)

From the DVD set appears that the finale in the US was screened as a single double Episode (rather than the split used by Ch.7)

Pity that Ch.7 is not doing a Jericho and at least running in parallel with the US for Series 3. Always Ch.BT I guess.

Posted by: Mark on October 31, 2006 10:44 AM

TM just wondering what the "International Rules" replay on Sunday rated across the 5 capitals?

Tribal Mind replies: 443,000.

Posted by: DB on October 31, 2006 10:46 AM

No great loss to hear that Axel Whitehead is gone from Video Hits - the show doesn't need a host - I usually watch it and other music shows because of the music, and not the host.
The other point to mention is that the guy has zilch music talent - he sang a crappy version of the Beatles classic 'Yesterday' in series One of Australian Idol and it was woeful - god knows how he ended up scoring the Video Hits gig - lets hope channel ten uses his sacking to drop the hosting role altogether and just let the show run on its own merits.

Posted by: craig on October 31, 2006 10:54 AM

Any show that ventures away from a hospital or crime lab will be killed before the pilot stage.
if this is the case then how come shows such as Dancing with the stars and Thank god your here are doing well and in to series 2/3 etc....??

Posted by: ajm on October 31, 2006 10:55 AM

so i am using a mac and a win machine, and downloading series 3 of greys... on the mac it takes days, and on the pc took 30mins. same connection? so any of you torrenters use a mac?

Posted by: macuser on October 31, 2006 10:58 AM

Studio 60 is about to get the bone in US.

Posted by: pete on October 31, 2006 11:06 AM

I don't understand the appeal of Grey's Anatomy, though I have really, really tried. It is so monumentally stupid, it defies comprehension. I know you're suppose to suspend disbelief when you watch anything on TV or the big screen but...a "prom" (more like crappy deus ex machina)? At a hospital? Where they all had to attend? No wonder that guy died.

It's not a very well written show and lacks intelligence. The hospital is just sound stage for the characters to play out their rather cliched relationship issues. I know everyone creams themselves over "McDreamy" and the melty-wax faced Ellen Pompeo but they have no chemistry (Patrick Dempsey tries his best and gets no back up from Pompeo - she's truly crap) and their angst just doesn't ring true (because really, how can you be in love with a melty wax face?). That goes for George and his girlfriend too: that whole "I said 'I love you' and you didn't say it back... boohoohoo" scene was excruciating and completely unoriginal. And so is Sandra Oh's story arc about a tough/ambitious surgeon becoming "humanised". It's so F&*king TRITE.

Posted by: Lex on October 31, 2006 11:20 AM

I haven't seen anywhere that Whitehead was axed - just a reprimand from all the reports.

re: macuser, you poor thing, days for an episode to download? how can you handle it? pc definitely faster.

re Lex, you are entitled to your opinion. You watched the episode and it's great that you could recount what happened. If you really hated it, you could have changed channels or switched the tv off. Must have meant something if you actually attached it that far. It took me most of Season 1 to like it and now I'm hooked.

Posted by: SC on October 31, 2006 12:11 PM

if this is the case then how come shows such as Dancing with the stars and Thank god your here are doing well and in to series 2/3 etc....??
Point taken AJM but I was referring to drama. As Pete points out Studio 60 is about to be cancelled and NBC went so far as to announce a while back that it would not spend money on original drama or comedy for airing before 10pm (their peak veiwing hour). It would only use celebrity dross, reality or game shows. Studio 60 is likely to be replaced by Deal or No Deal which is a prime time hit there and is far cheaper than drama to produce. NBC simply stated publicly what a lot of the networks, there and here are doing anyway.

Posted by: Cat on October 31, 2006 12:42 PM

can I ask what the best website to download american TV series is???? I am in need of Nip tuck S4 and greys S3 in particular...

Posted by: Paul on October 31, 2006 12:52 PM

Thanks Pete for that info on the shows over summer. Can't wait for the rest of Will and Grace and I don't mind American Idol I became a Carrie Underwood fan from a couple of season's ago when Ten showed it.

Ten have been showing Jerico the same time as the US and now they are going to do the same with The OC, I just checked Fox's website and it starts on November 2nd in the US lets hope it is an experiment that works and other networks follow suit. How about Charmed as well Ten and thanks for bringing back Smallville.

What about the Gilmore Girls come on Nine we are about half way through season 5 and in the US currently about 5 eps into season 7.

Posted by: shelly on October 31, 2006 1:12 PM

Aaaaaaaagh!!! It's Gray's, with an A, after the famous anatomy book.

Posted by: hev on October 31, 2006 1:17 PM

Torrentz.com is a search engine which is a good starting point. Most of the more popular shows have built in lists right there on the front page.

SiT, how did the NZ v GB Tri series Saturday game rate live on Fox compared to delayed on channel 9?

Posted by: FJ on October 31, 2006 1:21 PM

Thanks for the Summer line-up Pete. Quite interesting that some shows are running in a Summer slot. I wonder if the networks are considering dropping the idea of a non-ratings period, like they have in Britain. Viewers would appreciate some first-run series over Summer and the networks would be rewarded.

Posted by: J Bar on October 31, 2006 1:28 PM

I noticed even Kochie this morning on Sunrise spoke about how great it would be if Channel 7 continued running GA's now with Series 3.. and then preceeded to say his daughter is downloading it..before quickly shutting up.

Posted by: Lisa on October 31, 2006 1:36 PM

Paul :

Try Isohunt.com. Just search for greys anatomy and sort by date.
The episodes are numbered so it's pretty easy.

Posted by: Shane on October 31, 2006 1:38 PM

macuser - It doesn't take that long on a Mac to download. I've noticed no real difference in speed between the two.
Are you using Bit Torrent or Azureus? I recommend Azureus.

Paul - check out www.torrentspy.com

Posted by: downloader on October 31, 2006 1:44 PM

Idol's ratings suffered on Sunday not because of Lisa being kicked off,but because of it's timeslot
change to 6.30 to allow for the ARIA'S and also the fact that daylight saving began, which always
impacts on early evening figures. It was still way up on the normal figure Ten get's in the 6.30 slot for Meercat Manor and It's Me Or The Dog.

Posted by: andi28 on October 31, 2006 1:46 PM

"Must have meant something if you actually attached it that far. It took me most of Season 1 to like it and now I'm hooked."
Posted by: SC at October 31, 2006 12:11 PM

I think it means that (a) I am really curious about the hype; and (b) although people are entitled to have their own opinions, it's preferable that they actually back them up with examples gleaned from experiencing the target of their bitchery, don't you think?

You should try Chicago Hope reruns - now there was a well written hospital show: great dialogue, believable ethical conundrums, tangible chemistry amongst the cast and characters rather than caricatures.

Posted by: Lex on October 31, 2006 2:02 PM

lex, obviously you didnt watch last weeks episode where it explained why there was a prom.

But seriously its just a tv show and if you have to "try and get it" and you force yourself to watch it - i wonder how much of a life you actually have.

Your opinion kind of looks funny next to the 1.9 million of the rest of us that watched it because we wanted to :)

Posted by: Tasha on October 31, 2006 2:17 PM

For a lot of viewers it doesn't really matter too much. The majority of people I know who loves Grey's download the new episodes shortly after they air in the US anyway.
Notice how 7 are making a big deal of a new upcoming show with the hook that episodes will be screened in sync with the US?

Ooh la la! You mean that I don't need a man walking infront of my car holding a flag as I drive down the road anymore?

Posted by: 5318008 on October 31, 2006 2:43 PM

Paul, you need 2 things:

1. Use www.torrentscan.com to find the TV show and episode you're after. It's a site with a whole bunch of different bittorrent search engines you can use.

2. Download a bittorrent client, like Azureus or Bitlord, to open and grab the torrent once you've found what you're after by using 1. above.

Good luck.

Posted by: 5318008 on October 31, 2006 2:49 PM

I couldn't have put it better myself, Lex. I completely agree with your experience and assessment.

Posted by: damien on October 31, 2006 3:07 PM

To Paul at October 31, 2006 12:52 PM

http://eztvefnet.org/
is a good place to download american tv shows.
i recommend watching HEROES its awesome.

Posted by: HN on October 31, 2006 3:30 PM

Lex, you obviously know good blogging etiquette. Backing up what you say. Great stuff. Anyway I am with you on Chicago Hope. Loved that series. It was such a great drama and I agree greatly written. Greys isn't all about drama. It has it's funny bits as well.

Posted by: SC on October 31, 2006 3:41 PM

Martin Lester - Panel's confirmed for xmas day.

Posted by: paora on October 31, 2006 4:02 PM

I agree that the full year should be utilised for ratings. Instead of having non-ratings periods, have a peak and non-peak rating system, where advertisers pay less in certain months. As someone who works in advertising myself, I can see the advantage of being able to promote certain parts of the year to businesses that would normally be unable to use TV as an advertising medium financially.

Some other summer scheduling:
ER, Survivor,Close to Home, Nip/Tuck, Weeds, You are what you eat, Turn back your body clock, New Adventures of Old Christine,
Malcolm, Rome (all on 9).

Obviously, some of these are overrunning into summer schedule. And to Shelley earlier today, no word from Ch9 on Gilmore Girls, sorry.

Posted by: pete on October 31, 2006 4:23 PM

Hev, actually it's Grey's with an E...it is a play on the title of the famous anatomy book yes - but the title charactor is Meredith GrEy, hence Grey's Anatomy.

Posted by: Bee on October 31, 2006 4:24 PM

Aaaaaaaagh!!! It's Gray's, with an A, after the famous anatomy book.

Posted by: hev at October 31, 2006 01:17 PM

No, it's not. The characters, mother, dad and daughter have the surname of Grey. It is a deliberate homophone (sounds same, different meaning) which plays off on people's knowledge about the famous anatomy book.

Especially as in the early eps of S1, Ellis Grey is the author of a textbook that the interns used in med school.

If you also infer (whilst still in a G timeslot), it also about Meredith Grey's own actual anatomy and about who is about to study it intimately (*blush*)

Another example would be a series called Murphy's Law about a law firm with a lawyer called Murphy.

Actually has one like that been commissioned ???, maybe I should start scriptwriting :)

Posted by: kate on October 31, 2006 4:32 PM

Has channel 10 plain run out of ideas? In the 3.5 hours from 6 - 9.30pm tonight...prime time...2.5 hours is Simpson's and Futurama repeats. I am a fan of both shows but this is one of only 3 commercial TV stations we are talking about here...not fox 8. I feel embarrassed for them.

Posted by: Dr DK on October 31, 2006 4:37 PM

Quote from Hev: Aaaaaaaagh!!! It's Gray's, with an A, after the famous anatomy book.
Actually no, It's Grey's - named after the surname of the main character - Meredith Grey!!!
Also, thanks for all the tips on downloading guys....it will be a busy nite...might check out heroes as well...seems right up my alley

Posted by: Paul on October 31, 2006 4:52 PM

15. Australian Story ABC 0.86

I wish more people saw this week's show one of the best episode this year - about a youg man who was about to start a singing course but he had a terrible accident while surfing. Doctors told him he would never sing again but he proved them wrong. Well done ABC for screening such a inspiration programme.

Posted by: John on October 31, 2006 5:32 PM

Geez, can we get over the fact that channel 7 isn't showing an extra 2 or 3 episodes of the new season of Grey's anatomy. At least they showed the whole season without a ton of repeats stuck in between which is more than can be said for channel 9 with their top show CSI.

Posted by: Tom on October 31, 2006 5:40 PM

Wixy Gosford asked the question that I was going to ask. Why did 10 advertise the 4400 for Sunday night in all the guides and then show a repeat of Tripping Over? They do it all the time, One Tree Hill is another victim, they show an episode of that every three months (if they feel like it) ensuring that no-one remembers "the story so far".
If you advertise a show, damn well show it at the advertised time.

Posted by: Jeff Gehrig on October 31, 2006 6:06 PM

Sigh. Again with this ridiculous idea that Seven should start showing episodes from Season 3 of Grey's Anatomy. Never going to happen. Seven have done extremely well this year - in the nine months to September they actually captured a bigger share of the metropolitan ad market than Nine - and there is absolutely no need for them to waste new episodes of Grey's in the fag end of the ratings year. They're going to save them up for what I think will be a huge 2007.

Posted by: Fielding on October 31, 2006 6:32 PM

Re: Jeff Gehrig at October 31, 2006 06:06 PM

Jeff mate, if it's any consolation, S2 One Tree Hill is back on Ch10 at NOON on Saturdays =P

Posted by: princess peach on October 31, 2006 6:48 PM

Paul, its a play on words. There is a very famous science book called 'Grays Anatomy'. Hev was right. You would have to be about the only person who hadnt worked that out.

Posted by: William on October 31, 2006 7:23 PM

Hey
Not sure why you keep going on about Grey's. They would get to ep 3 only because they would not show an ep up against the finale of Idol. So you keep going on about three damm eps. You have not hounded on about any other show like that. A season finale is a season finale for a reason. It is meant to be shown as a cliffhanger as new things happen in the new season. Ending on ep 3 just sounds silly. I say air it as its supposed to air it. If it was September now I would say fine. They could do a Jericho style thing but all this carry on for just 3 eps is a bit silly. Last night was the finale so it should be just that - the finale

Posted by: Aaron on October 31, 2006 8:15 PM

princess peach, if you think that One Tree Hill is on EVERY Saturday at noon, think again, it usually appears in the program but is actually shown maybe once a month. I record the timeslot every week, just in case.

Posted by: Jeff Gehrig on October 31, 2006 9:04 PM

Home and Away rated more than Idol verdict??? That's insane
Oh btw TM, this may sound silly but do all states have different NEWS readers?
For instance does say SA get Sandra Sully for the late NEWS on 10 or does WA get Chris Bath for the 6pm NEWS on 7???
Thanks

Posted by: steve on October 31, 2006 9:20 PM

Any word on release date for Amazing race 10 and treasure hunters?
BTW theres faster ways to DL than bitorrent;)

Tribal Mind asks: So tell us what they are.

Posted by: don on October 31, 2006 9:46 PM

Posted by: steve at October 31, 2006 09:20 PM
Oh btw TM, this may sound silly but do all states have different NEWS readers?
For instance does say SA get Sandra Sully for the late NEWS on 10 or does WA get Chris Bath for the 6pm NEWS on 7???

Seven, Nine and Ten all have different news readers for their main 6pm (or 5pm for Ten) bulletins in each state. However, the morning news, the 4.30pm news (except Ten) and the late news are shown nationally and therefore is hosted by the same person. So you will see Sandra Sully reading the late news wherever you get Ten.

Posted by: johnson on October 31, 2006 9:46 PM

Does anyone know whether season 5 of Alias is coming back or not?
Thanks.

TM, what's happened to battlestar galactica on wed nite, bad enuff it's on at a late time, but having some poker show take it's spot... what it TEN doing?

Posted by: janette on November 1, 2006 2:31 AM

You should read the column by your colleague, Greg Hassall, in The Guide this week about why it's not such a bad thing for networks to play US shows here like they always have, particularly in light of our different non ratings summer periods and the US networks habit of staggering new episodes through the year (something that unfortunately some Australian networks do with some shows, CSI being the most obvious example). It is the most sensible article I have read on the matter in ages, and stands in stark contrast to your constant bleating about US shows continuing their run into their new seasons, rather than waiting for the new season here.(Please don't think I don't like you Mr TM, on this one matter alone I disagree with you).
I have US friends who say they would much prefer the system that has been used here for years where they play the whole season of 22 episodes through in a row, with only a one or two week break for when school holidays are on (traditionally I remember when I used to be an avid ER watcher years ago they always had a week off over Easter) instead of the constant repeats scattered throughout the year like they do in the US, where, particularly in their Spring as they lead up to the end of their ratings season in May, you can go for about four weeks in March or April with no new episodes.
Referring back to the time when ER was a big hit here, Nine would run ER's 22 episodes straight through over 23 weeks (with that one week Easter break, only having a longer break if there was a sporting event on one week)and then replace it in it's slot in late July/early August with This is Your Life and RPA (people may forget but RPA started in 1995 as a result of the huge success of ER and they wanted to keep that audience so worked up a real life version).
This always worked well, and if the likes of Nine did this with CSI and other shows, instead of constantly taking them off to extend them to the end of the year like the do now, and instead have another programme to replace it in that slot for the second half of the year ( like Seven now does with Desperate Housewives and Grey's Anatomy) I think people would be a lot happier (I don't actually watch CSI myself but you get my drift).
If people are in a hurry to see the shows there are options open to them (I've seen the first four episodes of Grey's on Youtube), but most people I know can't be bothered with the downloading and are happy to stick with the way it has always been done here with our different seasons to the US.

Posted by: Zoe on November 1, 2006 7:49 AM

ok for all those guys Hev and Paul and whoever - yes the show is actually Greys with an E. Not that it matters... But just so you all can get over it

Posted by: Tasha on November 1, 2006 8:56 AM

To Don - according to Sunday's Telegraph, the Amazing Race will be shown from next week (no indication of day or time).

Posted by: JB on November 1, 2006 9:34 AM

ABC have axed The Glass House

What The ? ? ?

Posted by: CheckOnIt? on November 1, 2006 10:04 AM

I think BORDER SECURITY will get 1.87 million tonight. It is big enough to get rid of thank god yr here which has been falling in the past few weeks and will also steer some viewers from nine's mcleods.

Posted by: matt on November 1, 2006 10:22 AM

THE AMAZING WILL RETURN TO SEVEN NEXT WEEK AT THURSDAY 9.30. It will be the special family edition. Bones will be brought forward to 8.30.

Posted by: matt on November 1, 2006 10:25 AM

Some very sensible thoughts there Zoe. Totally agree with you. I would much rather watch my favourite shows as a complete series, in order, without a break and without repeats. If the ratings ran throughout the summer period, we could have the American shows returning in January and running to June, with other series running from July to December.

Posted by: J Bar on November 1, 2006 10:25 AM

Thanks for the essay Zoe. Maybe one day I'll get around to reading it.

I wonder if channel 10 had learnt there lesson now that the deluge of Futurama and Simpson's (great shows, but "seriously" 10!!) didn't help their ratings. Maybe they'll actually treat prime time like prime time and not Saturday morning on Fox.

Posted by: Dr DK on November 1, 2006 10:28 AM

I have question regarding ratings etc .. do networks and advertisers presume that all the people who watch a show watch the ads ??

I can tell you that I don't watch any, I channel hop to something else (other FTA or Fox) and come back when the show restarts. Fair enough I have picture-in-picture but even before that I would still hop and come back and maybe see the last ad. It would be interesting if they would actually track who watches ads, not just shows. I think you will find substantial differences.

On a similar note, I think a lot(of the people who watch Idol and Dancing with the Stars don't watch the entire show. Most people I know watch the beginning of a song/dance and then go away and comeback for the verdict. If I had a ratings-box would this show up as watching Idol /DWTS ?

Posted by: VD Dimension on November 1, 2006 10:29 AM

Hi,
Do you know what happened to Celebrity Joker Poker?
Has it been cancelled already?
Damo ...

Tribal Mind replies: Yes.

Posted by: Damo on November 1, 2006 10:39 AM

Zoe, I think the main argument for showing the US eps as soon as they come out is that for popular shows, people these days won't wait six or more months - they'll simply download them, and thus the networks will lose audience share. This will only get worse over time as downloading becomes more prevalent.

It's kind of ironic, because it's the networks themselves which are driving people to downloads (or DVD purchases) with their constant schedule changes, increasing commercial content, repeats mixed with first run eps and uncertainty that the show won't simply be pulled of air.

Posted by: damien on November 1, 2006 10:40 AM

Border Security are repats at this point. I suspect the fact that it hasnt been labeled as such as they have probably mixed and matched the best segments from the last season. I think it will get a solid 1.4 at most because of that fact alone.

Posted by: routemarker on November 1, 2006 10:44 AM

R.I.P. The Glass House

Posted by: rjmatt on November 1, 2006 10:49 AM

Thank God 1 - Border Security zip!

Hey matt, The Amazing what returns to 7?

Posted by: Dirty D on November 1, 2006 10:52 AM

My guess for Border Security is 1.3m, I agree with Matt that Thank God has been running out of puff. I only watched a little last week and it was a little cringeworthy.
The figure of 1.3 is low but I personally have only seen one promo for it so marketing of its schedule is also low?

My next guess is that now Dean (who will not win Idol despite being popular with teen girls) will replace Alex Whitehead (who did not win Idol despite being popular with teen girls) to present VideoHits

Posted by: kate on November 1, 2006 11:01 AM

I think Thank God Your Here will beat Border Security, because i think alot of why Border Security does so well is that the competition on Tuesday night is pathetic. The only reason people are turning to 20 to 1 and repreats of CSI at the moment is that Dancing With the Stars is a little of kilter this season, with celebrities no one cares about (well less so than usual).

I would like to see Border Security win though, not because i like it, which i dont particularly, but because i think Thank God Your Here is the biggest rip off, over-hyped, overrated show to ever grace our screen, and i want it to plummet into oblivion.

What cities did 7 news and T&T beat 9 in?

Posted by: JAK on November 1, 2006 11:02 AM

Glass House gone. Does anybody what to say that the howard cronies on the ABC Board, didnt knife this show or did Jones write another of his letters.
Is this the first outward sign of political interference in the running of the ABC by the right wing loonies.

Posted by: Garry S on November 1, 2006 11:13 AM

Oh that really sucks about the Glass House, especially with the ratings being up. I hope they let rip tonight.

Posted by: tubbyk on November 1, 2006 11:19 AM

I'm 38 and have come to the downloading table pretty late in first half. The web enables choice for me, the ability to choose when I want to see a programme, no matter where it is shown in the world.
I'm currently watching Lost, Heroes and Greys straight off the torrent.
So, what does this mean for me next year in February when these shows make it to Aussie TV? It means I can choose not play the TV station game of pitting the best shows against each other at the same times, it means I can read a book that night - it means more quality time for me when I want it.

The biggest loser? Channel 7 and it's advertisers. Do I care? Not really. And think - I'm 38 - prime of life audience and target demographic for Ch 7 - what happens when more and more of us "older downloaders" go online... The writing is on the wall.

P.S Ed - perhaps a piece explaining the American Sweeps system (which is a paper based rating system and how it affects the distrubution of shows throughout the year) may be of use to your readers. Thanks

Posted by: AlphaVictor on November 1, 2006 11:21 AM

Paul, its a play on words. There is a very famous science book called 'Grays Anatomy'. Hev was right. You would have to be about the only person who hadnt worked that out.

Posted by: William at October 31, 2006 07:23 PM

Thanks William for your educating words...but instead of trying to insult me you should have read my email in the context that it was written - I was addressing the fact that Hev was trying to get us bloggers to call the show GrAys Anatomy when it is in fact GrEys - perhaps you are the only person that hadn't worked that out!!!

Posted by: Paul on November 1, 2006 11:25 AM

Did anyone catch Shock Docs last night..on Morbid Obesity? OMG it was seriously disturbing. If 5 minutes of that didn't make any overweight person take stock and commit to a healthy lifestyle, nothing would.

An unexpected visitor caused me to miss the last 10 minutes of Grey's Anatomy, and even though I know what happened (thanks to epguides.com) I really want to see it.

So you keep telling me it's so easy to download.

I have downloaded Azureus, Java, etc, but am unable to find episode 2-27 of GA anywhere.

One site wants me to register & pay a fee, though I thought it was free...?

Please help, what exactly do I have to do now?

Posted by: Sal on November 1, 2006 11:39 AM

Now that 'The Glass House' has been axed, is there a chance it could be replaced with 'The Chaser's War On Everything' in this timeslot? Hope so. Has there been any news on hwtehr the ABC will give them a second series?

The bad:- ch7 is showing series 7 when they showed series 8 earlier this year.

The good:- The glass house has finally been dumped. R.I.P Lame-arse comedy.

Posted by: Craig Burden on November 1, 2006 11:43 AM

I am so angry the are axing The Glass House, it just doen't make scence to axe a well rating show. Unless it cause of the alleged Left wing bias of ABC, which i am sure they would make fun of who ever was in government at the time. I urge everyone to write to the ABC and express your view on this.

I'm extremely surprised and disappointed that they are axing The Glass House. While I wasn't a completely regular viewer (it's taped, but not watched every week), there is really precious little of this style of TV comedy in Australia.

If it's true (as the rumour suggests) that this has been politically motivated, it is surely a very sad sign for the future of irreverant and satirical comedy in Australia - The Chaser boys had better watch out!

Posted by: LR on November 1, 2006 12:12 PM

its a shame about 'the glass house'. it is the only descent oz comedy and why if it rates so well would the abc dump it. glass house is better than other so called comedy on oz tv. watched thank go your here for the first time last week cos jimoen was on and had high expectations seen as it rates so well. but never again will i watch this dull try hard comedy as it was pathetic.

Posted by: a on November 1, 2006 12:14 PM

RE: the axing of Celebrity Joker Poker. Ten made the move to accommodate the return of The OC next Tuesday at 8.30pm. Season 4 premieres in the US this Thursday night (Friday lunchtime in Australia), so there will be a four-day gap between the two countries.

Posted by: johnson on November 1, 2006 12:15 PM

I'm extremely surprised and disappointed that they are axing The Glass House. While I wasn't a completely regular viewer (it's taped, but not watched every week), there is really precious little of this style of TV comedy in Australia.

If it's true (as the rumour suggests) that this has been politically motivated, it is surely a very sad sign for the future of irreverant and satirical comedy in Australia - The Chaser boys had better watch out!

Posted by: LR on November 1, 2006 12:18 PM

While betting whether or not Thank God You're Here and Border Security will pip the ratings tonight may be the order of the day, we should pay attention the hand that Coonan and the ABC has dealt by canning The Glasshouse and mourn its loss.
Accused of anti-Howard Government bias and an alarming popularity, The Glasshouse was time-slot resistant in its success. There were no gorgeous black labradors patrolling airports or mildly funny celebrity skits, The Glasshouse made us think and it made us laugh. At ourselves.
To Anderson, Hughes and Grant, a message from the UTS Journalism faculty, THANK GOD YOU'RE HERE.

Posted by: Anna on November 1, 2006 12:25 PM

Why is channel 7 showing the appalling Family edition of The Amazing Race when it is two series behind the current series in America which is showing Series 10 - Australia have already seen Series 9 and the Family Edition is Series 8. Shame on you Channel 7 ....

Posted by: Nic on November 1, 2006 12:39 PM

I too will miss The Glass House. It was a great format, consistently funny and very entertaining.

Posted by: damien on November 1, 2006 12:55 PM

RE Lisa - "Did anyone catch Shock Docs last night?"
I saw some of it and it makes me wonder whether or not Australians go sleep earlier than Americans? Reason being that the 10/11pm bloc in the US can support some pretty high quality dramas. However by 10:30pm in Australia we get freak-shows. Where'd the Aussie audience go?

Posted by: canoli on November 1, 2006 1:10 PM

Sal - refer to an earlier post by 5318008
Paul, you need 2 things:
1. Use www.torrentscan.com to find the TV show and episode you're after. It's a site with a whole bunch of different bittorrent search engines you can use.
2. Download a bittorrent client, like Azureus or Bitlord, to open and grab the torrent once you've found what you're after by using 1. above.
Good luck.

In relation to Tuesday's ratings what another horrible result for Channel 10. Channel 9 seems to have benefited the most by 10's redundant programming. Normally Tuesday night ratings allow 7 to pass or catch up to 9 but unless Border pulls big numbers then 9 will win the week thanks to CSI. What a shame!

Posted by: JJ on November 1, 2006 1:10 PM

"I urge everyone to write to the ABC and express your view on this."

Oh I will, to say: "Thanks Aunty, about time!".
Regardless of the reason for their sacking, the thing with constantly bagging out the government is that it's too easy and becomes predictable and stale. Their gags were telegraphed from a mile away. And they tend to pause after delivering a gag in anticipation of the braying laughter from their audience which is rather disingenuous.

What I cannot believe is that the ABC of all broadcasters would have lacked the savvy and political nous to let Glasshouse reach such a level of alleged "bias" that they would have pulled it without so much as a warning or advice from the ABC lawyers. The Glasshouse got canned because it's sh*t.

"If it's true (as the rumour suggests) that this has been politically motivated, it is surely a very sad sign for the future of irreverant and satirical comedy in Australia - The Chaser boys had better watch out!"

My understanding is that with the Chaser shows particularly the election ones, the Chaser people would time every segment on the show to ensure that all parties got their share of coverage (as well as equal positive and negative coverage) to avoid allegations of bias. Presumeably, the ABC lawyers would have told them to do this and vetted the shows. The WOE isn't actually political though, so I don't think it's in any danger. I do hope that WOE gets the Glass House timeslot because it's of a much, much higher quality and deserves better than the late Friday night timeslot.

On the ratings of the Glasshouse though wasn't it just riding on the coat tails of Spicks on Specks??

Posted by: Lex on November 1, 2006 1:11 PM

Isn't Border Security a repeat tonight?

Posted by: Kym on November 1, 2006 1:37 PM

Lex wrote: "I do hope that WOE gets the Glass House timeslot because it's of a much, much higher quality"

Couldn't disagree more on that one. I find Chaser/WOE to be puerile and cringeworthy at best. They had the timeslot they deserved.

As for TGYH - it's a very hit and miss show, particularly this season. The show's success clearly hinges on the quality of the participants. If they stink, the show stinks. But the other thing that's annoying is that it could easily be a 30 min program. There is too much fluff: inane chit-chat/intros, audience comments and the silly filmed skits which are shown out of context by cutting to the next performer's 'funny' answer. So if you got rid of all the fluff, you'd have a tight 30 min program and if they auditioned their guests before throwing them into the deep end, you might get more consistent quality.

Posted by: damien on November 1, 2006 1:39 PM

I am not a regular watcher of DWTS, happened to watch a bit yesterday and caught the chess girl, Arianne - she was simply superb. Having hardly read about her made me wonder if this was because she is not the usual soapie star/white Aussie type.....

Posted by: Shama on November 1, 2006 1:49 PM

Hey TM
What have the Glass House's ratings been like over the last few weeks?
If the Glass House is really as good as its apologists are making it out to be, why hasn't commercial TV pinched it like it did The Fat and Kathn & Kim?

Tribal MInd replies: Stay in Touch is doing a big story about it for tomorrow, in which all that will be revealed.

Posted by: Shut up you Glass House whingers on November 1, 2006 1:59 PM

Posted by: AlphaVictor at November 1, 2006 11:21 AM
There are so many sites to download from. I use mininova which pretty much has the eps up after it has aired in the States. Not only have I been downloading Greys but I am also up to date on Series 10 of the Amazing Race. The family series is way too boring. We are so duped in Oz.

Posted by: SC on November 1, 2006 2:06 PM

"The Glass House has been axed by ABC because of political issues.

Posted by: MP on November 1, 2006 2:23 PM

"I find Chaser/WOE to be puerile and cringeworthy at best."

I agree that they have some tedious moments but in general, WOE, CNNNN, the Election Chasers individually and collectively leave the Glasshouse for dead.

Posted by: Lex on November 1, 2006 2:28 PM

Oh geez, no more Glasshouse. Does that mean no more cutting edge political satire about Beazley's guts and Howard's eyebrows?
Wil Anderson was no better than Rove, he was somehow trendy because he was on the ABC. Anyone with common sense has probably moved along to 4 Corners or lateline, you'd get as many laughs, only with some substance.

Posted by: jed on November 1, 2006 2:31 PM

Maybe TEN can acquire The Glasshouse much the same way they did Good News Week a few years back. It will give TEN something decent to show on a Tuesday night instead of Matt Groening repeats.

Is the ABC to become our Pravda.The propaganda arm of our Federal Government.Can we believe their news anymore with their Government appointed censor watching over their shoulder.The Glass House will be missed by this viewer.A pox on the ABC

Posted by: don on November 1, 2006 3:10 PM

While we're ranting about ABC management gone crazy, how have Rage's Saturday morning ratings changed since they dropped the Top 50 at the end of July? I seem to recall that their ratings are averaged over the whole show, but I'd still be interested in seeing whether there has been a change.

- M.

Posted by: Miles on November 1, 2006 3:17 PM

Commander in Chief is listed in next weeks programs, although as it's on 10 it probably won't appear!

Posted by: Jeff Gehrig on November 1, 2006 3:20 PM

Paul
In addition to the other advice can I suggest you read the Wikipedia page on Bittorents as it will give you an idea about things like seeds, leechers and peers and help you pick the right tracker etc to download. It is fairly long but it was a big help when I started to download.

Posted by: Cat on November 1, 2006 3:22 PM

I'm guessing about 1.2 million for Border Security primarily because I think it's a compilation show of clips previously shown - they're boxing the next 4 shows into themes and that essentially means a box full of repeats nicely packaged - still it's worth seeing if you missed previous episodes.

As for the Glass House - I'm glad its going - it's so predictable and boring - Wil Anderson is NOT FUNNY and neither are his co-hosts. The Chaser Team are ten times funnier and far more original - let's hope they get a regular gig and show more of the Alan Jones Goof Tapes!

Posted by: craig on November 1, 2006 3:34 PM

For those of you mourning the demise of The Glasshouse, if you have ever been to a taping at the ABC studios, you would realise how "staged" the audience laughing actually is. If you don't laugh or react loud enough on the first run of the joke, it gets told again with a forced reaction. I agree with the previous comments that the show trots out the same political gags time and time again. I don't mind anyone having a go at the government of the day, but there is surely lots more interesting fodder about! It's lost its original edge and is delivering to the lowest common denominator. It's well past its use by date.
On the other hand, Spicks & Specks, even with the same formula, sparkles in comparison. Let's hope it doesn't go to the commercial networks. I'd like to see it go to a longer format though. Perhaps 45 minutes?

Posted by: AJ on November 1, 2006 4:26 PM

Wow, some very divergent opinions this week on TGYH, Glasshouse, Chaser etc. although no defenders of Rove I notice. I wonder why.
I'm not a fan of the glasshouse but I did believe in its right to exist on the ABC. They do make some weird decisions there don't they.
In a happy, secure society surely we can all laugh at ourselves and our government. It's healthy.
I've followed the weeks earlier discussion on Gre/ay's Anatomy and agreed with one point made - why so many hospital and cop shows? I'm sick of them and their lack of imagination. Count them all - on every channel - and be amazed how narrow is the art of scriptwriting. Maybe this is why the stupid reality TV wheelbarrow is pushed (hopefully it'll quickly find the edge of the cliff) cause they're struggling to think up new dramatic and comedic shows.
This is why I will again support Ten's Tripping Over tonight. Something different and it's not catering to the lowest common denominator that has become much lower than I thought possible.

A question - have the glory years of quality television passed? Or is it just not shown on Australian television?

Posted by: David @ Wahroonga on November 1, 2006 4:44 PM

Y AXE THE GLASS HOUSE U DICK HEAD

Posted by: angry man on November 1, 2006 5:17 PM

The Glasshouse shattered? Excellent, excellent news - and if the cancellation is politically motivated, then that in itself should guarantee the Government's re-election!

Posted by: Fielding on November 1, 2006 5:29 PM

Yes mein fuhrer! The Glass House is gone! and Media Watch is on the way out?

Who's next on the hit-list?

Tony Jones and Kerry O'Brien would be near the top you'd think.

How sad for Australia.

Posted by: John on November 1, 2006 5:33 PM

It doesn't surprise me that a lot of people who post on this site download the shows they watch, instead of waiting for them to air normally. However I disagree that this is what the majority of people are doing. Hardly anyone I know does this and the ones that do tend to do it mainly for shows that get treated badly here (eg. Scrubs). I would also add that sitting around watching your favourite show with a group of people is a hell of a lot more entertaining and sociable than sitting by yourself in a room watching it on a computer screen.

Posted by: Paul on November 1, 2006 5:43 PM

'Overhaul' has been replaced, ninemsn.com.au has a '20 to 1' episode listed. Not sure if its a repeat or not...

Posted by: William on November 1, 2006 6:30 PM

I for one am outraged to see the Glasshouse go. What an absolutely ridiculous decision by the ABC to axe one of the funniest shows on Australian television.

Posted by: Steve on November 1, 2006 8:10 PM

Hey
Just to clear up some info because it is posted wrong above.
Only 3 episodes were made of Celebrity Poker Joker. 2 eps aired and the other one was pulled from the sked. It was never continuing past the 3 eps at this stage. So 1 ep sits on the shelf until summer.
Commander in Chief will air at 11pm and not 10pm as someone suggested.
The Border Security eps are NEW EPISODES and not repeats as someone suggested.

Posted by: Aaron on November 1, 2006 8:38 PM

Thanks to Johnson and routemaker for answering my NEWS question.

Does anyone have an idea when or if Family Guy and American Dad return to Thursday nights? (thursdays REALLY need some fresh programing)

Oh and TM

do you have the figures for Shock Docs (which was really good)

Thanks

Posted by: steve on November 1, 2006 9:45 PM

Tonight's The Glass House was a hoot. They even had a go at the ABC management. No wonder they got the chop.

I for one will not miss the Glasshouse, maybe when it first started it was o.k but then Wil got his other gigs like writing for the Sunday paper & Dave has his DVD and radio show ... not sure what other gig Corrine has but the point is that the 3 main presenters haven't needed the Glasshouse as much as the Glasshouse needed good presenters. I loathe Howard and the Government and would normally applaud a show which lampoons both but unlike Chaser WOE, the Glasshouse has no WIT only lowest denominator humour, even the promos didn't promise humour, they promised smut and insults. As some one has said earlier, it may look ad-lib on the telly but everything is so rehearsed, even those interviews where Dave dresses up. And they are the worst part of the show....A good litmus test is that the commercial networks haven't tried to steal the Glasshouse, as they did with other good ABC shows. Also as TM has mentioned elsewhere, the other good indicator is how well Spicks and Specks does and then viewers flee.

Posted by: Andrew on November 2, 2006 1:48 AM

I am upset that Glass House is to go. It has been a must see for me for years. Sure are times that I think it can be a bit off the mark and the Dave dresses up bit I dont like but I nearly always laugh my way through the whole episode.
It is the funniest Oz show on and it must be hitting the mark if the ABC board dumped it. They obviously caved on pressure from the government not to critise it anymore. We need programs not afraid to have a go at anyone and everything. I hope maybe one of the commercial channels jump on it.Will,Dave and Corinne will be missed by my household.
And to all those whining that it deserved to go, well, we know how you all vote dont we?

Posted by: em on November 2, 2006 8:54 AM

Posted by: Paul at November 1, 2006 05:43 PM "I would also add that sitting around watching your favourite show with a group of people is a hell of a lot more entertaining and sociable than sitting by yourself in a room watching it on a computer screen."

----

Hi,
It is getting more social - last week a group of friends got together for a few beers, BBQ and the 4 new episodes of Lost - just connected my laptop to the TV with a $12 cable from Dick Smith - downloading is no longer the dominion of the social recluse - it's mainstream and it's growing faster than most people realise (or want to believe)

Posted by: AlphaVictor on November 2, 2006 9:34 AM

It's official - poor old/young Axle Whitehead has 'resigned' from Video Hits for exposing himself at the Arias - (Ho Hum!). My spy at the Arias said he did expose himself but she couldn't see anything - and apparently that was on one of the 'big screens'.

Looks like Axle has lost his job and his reputation as a so called 'big boy'!

Posted by: craig on November 2, 2006 9:56 AM

I used to be a big fan of The Glasshouse, but I haven't watched it for some time, for the reason that I think the program has become a little too smug for its own good, and Dave Hughes in particular is a smart arse, nothing more! However, I object to the ABC axing a comedy program, purely to appease the Howard Government.
I guess we should be grateful the Chaser boys are back next year, although I suspect ABC manangement will severely neuter the program to such an extent that the only political satire allowed will be directed at the Labour Party/Beazley.
Oh well, I bet Piers Ackerman and Gerard Henderson will have their own discussion program on ABC TV next year, and John Howard will be their first guest(rolls eyes).

RE: William - "... ninemsn.com.au has a '20 to 1' episode listed. Not sure if its a repeat or not..."
*Technically, all '20 to 1' episodes are repeats.
PS: The axeing of 'The Glasshouse' will surely guarantee a Coalition victory at the next election.

Posted by: canoli on November 2, 2006 10:49 AM

Aaron, correct me if I am wrong, but whilst the Border Security episodes are technically not repeats, they are using segements shown from previous shows, and no new material is being shown - which may be the reason for the lower numbers and not the fact that it is on a Wed.
On another note, I can now see why Oz networks do not want to broadcast shows straight after the US when you consider the US schedule. I have been watching the new seasons of Prison Break and Lost and read today that they will soon go off air until at least Feb in the States. I for one would perfer to watch the season without any breaks, which is what we primarily get in Australia.

Posted by: Jason on November 2, 2006 11:05 AM

Posted by: Aaron at November 1:

The Border Security eps are NEW EPISODES and not repeats as someone suggested.

**************************

I briefly watched a bit of Border Security while channel surfing last night and it was definitely a repeat!

I wish channel 7 would put repeats of GA instead of criminal minds. Channel 10 are doing it for NCIS, but next week is the last episode of Season 2...so i don't know if they will keep putting NCIS repeats on.

TM: I wish you'd put a picture of McDreamy on the site. I think it's the second time you've put Sandra Oh :)

Posted by: LoveMyMcDreamy on November 2, 2006 11:27 AM

hey SiT: judt wondering who is winning the week so far and is 9 in the box seat to take the week cos of the league on saturday night
thanks

SiT replies: Nine is winning.

Posted by: a on November 2, 2006 11:28 AM

So, if I interpret the ratings this week compared to last week - Tripping Over audience numbers have dropped? I find it watchable but very dull.

Posted by: manicmidwife on November 2, 2006 11:42 AM

When I saw the promo for Border Security on Monday night, I already thought it was a repeat (the asian illegal immigrant & the middle aged aussie officer), hence, I did not bother to watch it. Seven is resorting to lies and repeats to boost rating!

Posted by: ozboy1999 on November 2, 2006 12:04 PM

Note to Aaron re Border Security - THEY ARE NOT NEW EPISODES MATE - they are re-packaged themed shows of episodes already seen - last night was a compilation of different bits from different shows - its a cunning way the networks chose to re-hash the 'best of' shows and maximise ratings - Nine does it with '20 To One and Today Tonight does it cleverly during xmas - they chose a theme like neighbourhood disputes and gather all the stories they've shown throughout the year and package them into a single yarn - its cheap tv but effective!

Posted by: craig on November 2, 2006 12:10 PM

SiT, was wondering if you had an answer to my question I asked earlier?

How did the Saturday NZ v GB Tri Nations game rate live on Fox Sports compared to delayed on channel 9?

SiT asks: when was it on?

Posted by: FJ on November 2, 2006 12:11 PM

em wrote: And to all those whining that it deserved to go, well, we know how you all vote dont we?

Actually I am glad the Glasshouse is going, it is repetitive, Wil and Dave are so full of their own self importance and are not funny. Corinne is quite good but the other two hog the program from her. It deserves to go - not for any anti-government bias (which I applaud) but because it is a tired repetitive show (especially when compared to Spicks and Specks) Oh, Em - I have voted Labour or The Greens since I could vote.

Posted by: kate on November 2, 2006 12:18 PM

I have mixed feelings about the Glasshouse being axed. I was getting very sick of Wil Anderson and his smug, schoolboy humour - watching it last night after it had been axed, he was laughing over the fact that it took less than 90 seconds for a discussion to change from a news story to being about sex, which is why I was getting sick of him. I watched it for the political satire, not smutty jokes. That said, when Corrinne Grant hosted it, it was a much better quality program. But sadly, last night it was back to its best (after the first segment, they then got to focusing on the stories rather than being smutty), where they actually did tackle the news stories instead of having their own conversations, which makes me lament its loss to television. I hope Chaser gets its timeslot, they are funny guys, although they do tend to polarise opinion.

As for the comments on the american viewing schedule, after hearing the comment that after this week, the US programs take a break until February: well, doesn't that just ruin everyone who was supporting waiting until Feb for GA's arguments - they argued it was intended to screen at once, clearly it doesn't. So why can't we have the new episodes?! And I too, when I have received downloaded programs, hook it up to my tv and have a group of friends over to watch, which is what I did with the last eight episodes of Lost last year. Channel 7 lost about 10 viewers just through me! If each person that downloads does the same thing...

Posted by: beckala on November 2, 2006 12:22 PM

The cynic in me thinks that the reason The Glasshouse announcement came yesterday has NOTHING to do with politics.

Did anyone else realise their best of DVD was released yesterday. And what's the best way for the ABC to get free publicity? Axe the show. The DVD will march up the best seller list.

Posted by: Bereft Skerrick on November 2, 2006 12:41 PM

Re Glasshouse. I could never believe it took between 8 and 10 writers to write that show each week. If you don't believe me look at the credits. I hope it was axed because it was lame predictable humour and not as a result of right wing heretics.

Posted by: ned on November 2, 2006 12:57 PM

what ever happened to freedom of speech?? i am only a recent viewer of this show and while i may not agree with everything it is a great outlet to have. I think that the ABC should reconsider what they have done.

I think that this show is 10 times better than rove and as is pointed out it rates better than rove!!

If the ABC are so hellbent on kicking off the trio i hope that another fta station picks them up.

Posted by: ang at November 2, 2006 09:08 AM

Posted by: ang on November 2, 2006 1:00 PM

I'm not buying the political interference slant with axing of the Glasshouse. As pointed out earlier, it was losing over 200K viewers between it and Spicks N Specks earlier in the evening. Might not have been Glasshouse's fault, mind you, but ABC probably had enough of the juvenile humour.

Not sure that putting Chaser into that slot is a good idea either. If Glasshouse lost that many viewers from the 830 peak, then I can't see Chaser retaining them.

Posted by: pete on November 2, 2006 1:10 PM

Quoth Paul at November 1, 2006 05:43 PM: "I would also add that sitting around watching your favourite show with a group of people is a hell of a lot more entertaining and sociable than sitting by yourself in a room watching it on a computer screen."

I have to agree with the sociability aspect, from the point of view of watercooler discussion. Most people watch TV when it's screened on FTA, rather than via download (although that is subject to change, I grant you). And then it's a good topic of conversation the next morning at work, before we settle down for some real work.

I've had many a fun discussion about Lost in the office on a Friday morning, and that's part of the enjoyment of the show for me.

Oh, did anyone catch David Stratton's aside during At The Movies last night? He'd just finished his review about Who Killed The Electric Car, and then passed on to Margaret, with this lovely quote: "And now, because there is no bias on this show and because we’re a model of impartiality, Margaret Pomeranz will totally disagree with everything I’ve just said."

"If Glasshouse lost that many viewers from the 830 peak, then I can't see Chaser retaining them."

But I thought the WOE was getting up towards 7-800000s at the end of the season building up from 600000s audiences at the start of the year? That is pretty good for a show airing late on Friday night with a constantly changing timeslot - even the lower 600000 numbers are good. And don't discount the viewers who taped the show because they aren't in on Friday nights.

Compare that to the numbers for Arsehouse which was given every chance of doing well - hump-day prime time slot following a very strong show. Like I said above, it got axed on the basis of its being crap not because of some political agenda.

I've never voted Liberal in my life but if the Glasshouse is focusing largely on lampooning the Libs, in a time when the ALP (and Australian politics in general) is just as big a joke, then they deserve to be sent to the glue factory for being utterly mediocre and unimaginative.

The funniest thing about the Glasshouse is all the claims that it involves political satire. HAHAHA! Oh, give me more.

Posted by: Lex on November 2, 2006 1:40 PM

Paul at November 1, 2006 05:43 PM

Paul most new dvd players play divx files these days and for a measly sum of about 100 bucks.

I paid a bit more for a good quality LG one, and we watch episodes of Greys/Veronica/Lost/Gilmore Girls/Studio 60 etc in the loungeroom. Not at the computer. You download a bunch, burn them all to a rewritable dvd and watch them ad free in hi def.

Posted by: Shane on November 2, 2006 1:42 PM

tripping over was such a load of rubbish. Without Dan McPherson no girl would of tuned in. There waaay to many story lines to fit into one show. Its too hard core - the chick sees "dead people"..... it seems like a joke - but its classed as drama. A couple of weeks and it will be in a 10:30 time slot. How do they keep stuffing up with these ridiculous shows?!!!

Posted by: Tasha on November 2, 2006 2:02 PM

slowly 'a current affair' with tracey is gaining viewership.
i was observing the show a couple of nights ago and i was noting how tracey has made the programme her own. She looks great, the graphics are good ( at last!) and they got rid of that ghastly glass counter. the close up shots they use of her make her seem personable .
well done tracey and crew!
She is a very professional presenter who always keeps her poise.
Nine should treasure her!

Posted by: lily on November 2, 2006 2:09 PM

So the ABC is axing it's second highest rating show (not including the news) on Wednesday night?

How stupid.

Posted by: Bob on November 2, 2006 2:12 PM

SiT, in answer to your Q the NZ v GB test was on last Saturday night the 28th. Fox Sports had it on live at 5:00pm and 9 had it delayed at various different times depending on State.

I like Tripping over. I'll watch it until it is axed and replaced with Futurama. By the time Ten get tired of running Futurama, it will actually be an historical satire.

In my opinion though, 1 million viewers is not bad considering the focus of the audience. People forget that Ten target their shows to a particular demographic knowing the advertising will also be focused and thereby more valuable. Border Security may get more viewers, but it's everyone from 15 to 80 (as all those over 80 are locked on to ABC).

Posted by: Dr DK on November 2, 2006 2:21 PM

What the hell is a McDreamy?

Posted by: Dr DK on November 2, 2006 2:23 PM

People complaining about TGH losing 200K viewers from S&S, The fact is it actually picks up viewers from "The IT Crowd".

For that matter, Why isn't The IT Crowd more popular? sure it's stupid, but at the same time it's very funny.

Posted by: DB on November 2, 2006 2:30 PM

The Glasshouse gets axed while The Wedge continues on and on and on...

Now that's injustice!!

Posted by: Sacs on November 2, 2006 2:50 PM

Re: The Glasshouse. For too long the ABC has been a leftist paradise, but the government may now be over compensating. I can afford to lose The Glasshouse, but don't touch my Media Watch

Posted by: drb123 on November 2, 2006 3:06 PM

I find it very funny when people comment on a show they don't like and they say "Oh I wished they'd axe that" or "Oh I'm glad that's going". If you don't like it, why don't you just NOT watch it? Oh no, that's too easy. I'd rather a TV station completely remove a show that I don't like, even though many others do. *rolls eyes*

On "Insiders" a couple of weeks ago, a panelist remarked about the ABC's new bias moniter "We'd (the ABC) be better off spending the money making the Glass House actually funny!". And that was shown on the ABC. I thought that was both funnier and more insightful than anything Wil Anderson has said in years.

Goodbye and good riddance

Posted by: Goose on November 2, 2006 3:36 PM

I can't understand all the fuss about the axing of the Glass House. It was a crap show hosted by a bunch of smug smart arses. Maybe they should have looked to the Chaser boys to see how political satire is done. The Chaser gives it to Howard each week, and gives it to Beazley in equal doses. A very good way to double your audience. It's called equal time, and it's how political satire should be done. Chaser will be back in 2007. No surprises there. Chaser is basically the Glass House with an IQ. Didn't that bimbo Corrine Grant jump ship from Rove? I rest my case.

Niki

Posted by: Nikita Laska on November 2, 2006 4:03 PM

The most annoying thing to me is this: these three hacks can now go around perpetuating the myth they were so subversive that the government of the day wanted them necked and their idiot followers will swallow every word of it. Their humour somehow gets better with the passing of time, because they were allegedly cut down in their 'prime,' despite the fact they were clearly ****house.
This is the kind of 'hard comedy street cred' Anderson will now be attributed with, without doing any of the work for it.
And won't he milk it for all it's worth.

Posted by: jed on November 2, 2006 4:11 PM

"I find it very funny when people comment on a show they don't like and they say "Oh I wished they'd axe that" or "Oh I'm glad that's going". If you don't like it, why don't you just NOT watch it? Oh no, that's too easy. I'd rather a TV station completely remove a show that I don't like, even though many others do. *rolls eyes*"

People are happy when lousy shows get axed because there is at the very least, the *potential* of a better one replacing it to provide actual entertainment or information.

Posted by: Lex on November 2, 2006 4:16 PM

Sorry Tasha, i watched the show and enjoyed it it had nothing to do with Dan McPherson (he is not that good) i find it better than most other crap on TV. I think you should sick to the OC if this is too hard core for you.

Posted by: vanessa on November 2, 2006 4:39 PM

How did Survivor rate last night?

Tribal Mind replies: 596,000

Posted by: Dan on November 2, 2006 4:39 PM

In regards to Tripping over i am sure i have read it only goes for 6 episodes. Has anyone else heard this.

Posted by: vanessa on November 2, 2006 4:42 PM

The info means 9 probably should've shown it Live.

Posted by: FJ on November 2, 2006 4:46 PM

Tripping Over has started on UK telly to a very positive response both with viewers and critics. Maybe this will sway Ch10 to stay with it for the entire 6 episodes without moving it to 2am Thursdays.

LOL @ Arsehouse! I'm glad that the perpetually back-slapping jokers have been boned. I just hope that ABC choose their replacement line-up carefully.
Wednesday's should consist of Spicks N Specks, then perhaps the new Chris Lilley program and then maybe, just maybe the Chasers. This would make it Wednesday Aussie Comedy night. I think that dumping a subversive UK comedy like the IT Crowd in between S&S and the Arsehouse was a poor choice - the styles are just all over the shop.

Can you all go there cause i am sick of hearing about it. Yesterdays news get over it!

Posted by: cornell on November 2, 2006 4:58 PM

Dr DK wrote: What the hell is a McDreamy?

A very gorgeous man.... beautiful eyes (he has blue eyes and they are really dreamy.) and don't forget the hair as well, but the eyes. :)

He is actually Dr Derek Shepard from GA...aka Patrick Dempsey

Posted by: LoveMyMcDreamy on November 2, 2006 5:29 PM

Yes, tripping over does only go for 6 episodes. It has been moved to 9:00 next wednesday because the Thank god your year final is and hour and a half.

Tripping Over- It is a good show not like the american stuff that runs for twenty episodes and only one is worth watching. Tripping over has a great storyline and because it is only 6 shows it means it has all the drama and interest put into it that american shows spread out. Good stuff ten!

Posted by: Nick on November 2, 2006 5:58 PM

RE: Tasha's comments: tripping over was such a load of rubbish. Without Dan McPherson no girl would of tuned in.

Not true. I watch it IN SPITE of Dan McPherson, not because of. He is definitely the weakest part of the show, but I tolerate it because you get to see the beautiful and talented Rebecca Gibney as his mother in most of the scenes he is in, and the other actors in the rest of the show.

It has only been commissioned for six episodes, but if it succeeds ten is talking about commissioning another series next year (not sure if it would be another six or a full season...) I think they're going with the theory that it's better to have too little than too much of a good thing, which is a smart programming move. This is similar to what they did with... I think it was called the Surgeon, (it had Justine Clarke in it) smartest piece of television for years, left it as a short series (I think also six weeks), I was hooked!!

Posted by: beckala on November 2, 2006 6:18 PM

How can you possibly criticise The Glass House for losing viewers out of Spicks & Specks? The shows don't air next to each other, there's a half hour in between. Also, the shows are aimed at different audiences. Some kids might watch S&S, none would watch TGH. And a lot of people may also decide to not sit through the half hour of British crap and just tape TGH.

I will be saddened to see the show go, but after last night's ripper, this final month should be a hoot.

Posted by: Samuel Capelin on November 2, 2006 6:18 PM

How did survivor rate last night?

Tribal Mind replies: I answered that question earlier.

Posted by: srdjan on November 2, 2006 6:27 PM

Does anyone get annoyed like me with ACA, when approaching 7.00pm, some of us not watching the time (yep, esp. when we wait for the ABC news) Tracey says "Coming Up", and then it is always the next night's story!! Why is this so?? Is this misleading do you think? How many times does it run past 7.00 pm so people have to watch Temptation instead of the the news...
(a newbie blogger by the way, does it make sense?)

Posted by: rods_cafe on November 2, 2006 8:36 PM

"While we're ranting about ABC management gone crazy, how have Rage's Saturday morning ratings changed since they dropped the Top 50 at the end of July? I seem to recall that their ratings are averaged over the whole show, but I'd still be interested in seeing whether there has been a change.

- M."

I wouldn't mind an answer on this as well. If they don't want to do the top 50 fair enough, but the new format - with the annoying hosts etc. - is awful, and a pretty transparent attempt to justify the existence (and budget) of a fading Triple J and its self satisfied hangers-on.

Posted by: Rob on November 2, 2006 9:19 PM

Hmm, I changed channels at the wrong time. I switched away from 7 just before the winner was announced for celebrity survivor, but when I tuned back in it was all over. Don't suppose anyone knows who won. I don't care either, just curious. BTW, How many watched/endured it?

Posted by: Ian on November 2, 2006 11:33 PM

No Neighbours in the top 15 or 20 for Tuesday and Wednesday? Oh dear, I thought the fire/baby stuff would have pulled more viewers. Anyone know how many?

Posted by: Deepheat on November 3, 2006 2:53 AM

thanks vanessa i will be sticking to the oc once it returns next week, enjoy Tripping over... p.s I SEE DEAD PEOPLE!

Posted by: Tasha on November 3, 2006 8:42 AM

guy leach won celeb survivor

Posted by: ac on November 3, 2006 8:50 AM

I was a big fan of 'The Glass House' a few years ago but less so recently. I agree that the show had become predictable and repetitive but if there's any truth that the axing was politically motivated then I think that's a disgrace. I watched Tripping Over again this week and I like it. It's not brilliant throughout but has many brilliant moments. I think it has potential to become a big show like 'The Secret Life Of Us', even if it only attracts certain demographics. Good news that it's done well in the UK. It might boost it here too. It still rates a lot better than many of the other shows Ch 10 screens like 'The OC' or 'Smallville' which they keep persisting with, so they'd be mad not to order a second series of six eps.

The ratings for Neighbours always drop when daylight savings kicks in. I think that's why they've started having big storylines in late October over the past couple of years, to combat the audience drop. I believe all the evening shows suffer because people stay outdoors longer. Actually, it might be quite interesting if Tribal Mind did a story on the difference in ratings when daylight savings starts or ends.

Posted by: J Bar on November 3, 2006 8:58 AM

Ian, apparently Guy Leach won celebratey survivor, i didn't watch it but someone at work let me know.

Posted by: vanessa on November 3, 2006 10:25 AM

Survivor Spoiler Alert Ahead:

Ian: Hmm, I changed channels at the wrong time. I switched away from 7 just before the winner was announced for celebrity survivor.

The winner was Guy Leech. The final two were Justin and Guy, Justin having earlier voted out Imogen. Guy is a nice fella but it seemed a little rough that he won as he had time out for 6 days while Imogen was there every day.

Still the money goes to charity :)

Posted by: kate on November 3, 2006 10:36 AM

RE: Tripping Over Posted by: Tasha at November 2, 2006 02:02 PM, that was so true. I watched the first two episodes cos all the media is bragging about it (maybe they were just paraphrasing the words from the PR machine rather than watching the show first hands). Bad acting, confusing storylines and there is no core story at all to go back for more, am not going to put up with it anymore.

By the way, has anyone seen Dermot Brereton on Getaway last night? How did he get the gig anyway (mate of Eddie and been on Skating on thin Ice, may be)? Awful presentation throughout and his dress sense was kind of mutton dressed as lamb.

Posted by: ozboy1999 on November 3, 2006 11:17 AM

The most telling I think is the absence of ACA and TT. It confirms my theory that their audience consists mainly of oldies sitting around seeking comfort that the world is going to hell so leaving it is not so bad.

Thanks for the explanation of a MacDreamy. I looked a right fool earlier today when I went into a MacDonald's and ordered one.

Posted by: Dr DK on November 3, 2006 11:23 AM

Most UK shows only run for 6 or so episodes in a series. It's only a rare few that run for longer. I much prefer them that way.

Posted by: ukfella on November 3, 2006 11:31 AM

Hey TM i was just wondering if ten will be showing American Idol during the summer?And also if So you think you can dance is a local or the us version?
thanks

Tribal Mind replies: I don't know but some readers will.

Posted by: matt reilly on November 3, 2006 11:38 AM

Quoth drb123 at November 2, 2006 03:06 PM: "Re: The Glasshouse. For too long the ABC has been a leftist paradise, but the government may now be over compensating. I can afford to lose The Glasshouse, but don't touch my Media Watch"

From my (albeit fuzzy) memory of when the ALP were last in power (yes, Virginia, there was a time before Howard), the ABC didn't go easy on them either.

I think the ABC feels it is their duty to criticize, regardless of who is in power. If the ALP ever actually gets back in, I'm sure the ABC won't be playing nice.

And I for one am yet to see any evidence that TGH was axed for political reasons, rather than for the fact that it's done its dash, and it's past time that it got put out to pasture.

And hands off my Media Watch too! And I'm bloody glad the Chaser Boys are still on (even though I rarely get to see them).

Posted by: tqd on November 3, 2006 11:46 AM

Rob says:
I wouldn't mind an answer on this as well. If they don't want to do the top 50 fair enough, but the new format - with the annoying hosts etc. - is awful, and a pretty transparent attempt to justify the existence (and budget) of a fading Triple J and its self satisfied hangers-on.
-------------------------
Hmmm...fading in what sense?, as long as I have listened to it, the ratings in Sydney have been around the 4% mark - plus or minus half a percent. Despite a strong attack from Nova, and other forms of entertainment (internet, etc), they have maintained in a very tough demographic.
The reason JTV was introduced was to capitalise on a very effective and strong youth brand (say 12-25, maybe 30) - a demographic the ABC has very little penetration into. In addition, the charter of the ABC is to provide proramming that no-one else does - and how is duplicating the Video Hits Top 50 on the ABC on the same morning a vaild use of ABC resources. The ABC is not all about ratings people, its about offering alternatives and the types of programming that has a vaild place for a part of the Australian population, but is not necessarily popular. In this case, people who like alternate music.
Personally, based on my music taste (and I am 31), I would prefer to watch JTV saturday any day of the week rather than the Top 50 section of Rage.
I suspect that Rob is the one whose is interst in Triple J is fading, not Triple J itself that is fading.
Richard Alston (former Liberal Comms Minister), commissioned a study of the radio market specifically to try and show that Triple J was duplicating a commercially available alternative. He was trying to justify selling it off. In the end the study showed that not one commercial comapny has duplicated it.
As you can see, I am passionate about Triple J, as I come from a regioanal area, and the arrival of Triple j saved my life in terms of giving me contact with a culture that does not exist in most regional areas. I was going stir crazy.
They are also the only media in Australia to do current affairs from a youth perpective - and believe it or not, John Howard has never been on Triple J ONCE in 10 years as PM.

Tribal Mind replies: If I get full ratings for Saturday night and Sunday morning this weekend, I will try to check out Rage.

Posted by: Chris on November 3, 2006 12:21 PM

to Ukfella:

All my information suggests that UK television is bought in blocks of 13 episodes apart from the soapies like Eastenders and Corrie. Most of the channels split a 13 part season into 2, with many of them holding over an episode for Christmas. Is that correct?

And TM - looks like your summary of Thursday viewing last week was spot on the money. Another Thursday where the audiences were way down. 1.3m for the biggest show of the night is a bit poor, isn't it?

Posted by: pete on November 3, 2006 12:41 PM

How sad that a gameshow as lame as temptation is the no 1 watched show on thursday night.

Posted by: Geoff on November 3, 2006 1:10 PM

Who do you reckon is the real 'villain', Ben or Juliet? IMO, it's Juliet.

i totally disagree, if your with a group of ppl why would you want to sit around and watch tv. why wouldnt you socialize with these ppl instead thats what they are therefore.

some of us have tv on our computers and when we are alone, without our friends we like to sit around and watch this.

your statements make absolutely no sense, unless your friends are so boring that they can not carry on a conversation with you and hence you would then need something to take your mind off the psychobabble of them, and focus on the tv.

Posted by: bertie on November 3, 2006 1:21 PM

Chris at November 3, 2006 12:21 PM raises an ineteresting thought: if our politicians were TV shows, which network would best match their demographic of support? Persoanlly, I would go:

John Howard = Channel 9;

Kim Beazley = Channel 10;

Steve Bracks = Channel 7;

Morris Yemma = SBS. Any others? Might this be the new metaphor for political analysis? And who gets to be Channel 31?

Posted by: Mike Bourke on November 3, 2006 1:37 PM

Chris post Nov 3 - 12.21 pm. I fully agree with your comments Chris - we've got enough Top 50 shows on free to air, cable and radio without the ABC attempting another version. I fully support the JTV concept and the hosts actually know what they're talking about (even though I don't see them as necessary on a music show). That dill Axle Whitehead on Video Hits didn't have a clue and it detracts from the show. JTV tends to let the music and the overall alternative concept speak for itself and that's why its popular amongst music buffs - keep it going I say!

Posted by: craig on November 3, 2006 2:09 PM

What has happened to Monk on Saturday night? Was it's resurrection cut short by 10 for some reason, or is it just off air this week and will it be back on soon?

Posted by: LAH on November 3, 2006 3:47 PM

to bertie at November 3, 2006 01:21 PM
" if your with a group of ppl why would you want to sit around and watch tv. why wouldnt you socialize with these ppl instead "

Isn't sitting with a group of people watching your favourite show and discussing it socialising??

I would put it in the same category as going to the movies with a group of friends which surely is a social occasion.

Posted by: ac on November 3, 2006 4:24 PM

TM just a couple of questions:
can you guys convince ch 9 to screen letterman.
Do sbs upscale their broadcasts?
BTW theres faster ways to DL than bitorrent;)
Tribal Mind asks: So tell us what they are.
usEdaNeT
Im sure you will be able to figure it out.

Tribal Mind replies: No we cannot convince 9 to screen Letterman. We have never had any success in convincing Nine to do anything. And we do not know if SBS upscales their broadcasts. They seem pretty upscale already.

Posted by: don on November 3, 2006 4:26 PM

LAH - Monk dumped on bad ratings( 549,000 last sat)

Posted by: paora on November 3, 2006 4:32 PM

Posted by: ac at November 3, 2006 04:24 PM
if you read what i was referring to you wouldnt be asking me that.
what sort of boring ppl sit around and discuss tv. i only watch tv by myself and thats if i watch tv. why would i want to sit with friends and have it on, unless it was on in the background, he made out that he sits and discusses tv with friends boring sod instead of psychobabble from friends.
theres got to be something more intellectually stimulating than tv, its a social blunder when you have friends around who are supposed to be interesting to talk to, if there interesting that is. although that fat show does get a good laugh in a group situation.

Posted by: bertie on November 3, 2006 6:06 PM

I caught a bit of a show on ch9 last night where a panel of celebrities (Peter Berner, shame on you) discuss whether they prefer one thing/person over another. eg Jennifer Aniston vs Angelina; Parlap vs Makybe Diva. And then the audience votes!
FFS!
It was like fingernails down a chalkboard. I'm curious to know who watches this and how ch9 can justify airing such rubbish.
It sent me back to the safety of Foxtel.
Speaking of which...Project Runway and Entourage (both season 3) starts this Sunday on Arena! Thank Goodness....

I may be wrong but i think Temptation got a big audience on Thursday due to the possibility of crowning a new grand champ, which they did.
To teresa: Yes the show is called big questions which i had never seen before and agree was crap (but they sucked me into watching by have Angelina Jolie in the promos for it)
Good to see ACA beating TT (Yes i like it, it's been really interesting the past 2 weeks oh and i'm 17, not over 50 as someone previously suggested)

Posted by: steve on November 3, 2006 10:58 PM

RE: Monk, I don't know for certain, but maybe Channel 10 is resting it for this week due to the Tri-Nations match being on Nine - they usually put some appalling kids movie to get the audience that isn't into football (example - This week it is Stuart Little followed by the sequel to The Mummy). Very interested to see what Criminal Minds will rate in GA timeslot - anyone want to take bets as to how many viewers Seven will lose? My guess is 500,000.

Posted by: beckala on November 4, 2006 8:57 AM

Interesting night last night. I'm guessing Seven won the night with around 30% with Nine on about 27-28%

Posted by: nikotin on November 4, 2006 10:39 AM

TM- any figures for ABC 7.30pm melblourne Election debate.

Tribal Mind replies: 291,000 in Melbourne. Not shown anywhere else.

Posted by: paora on November 4, 2006 10:49 AM

Have ordered the DVD for Veronica Mars series 2... Ch10 have played hide and seek with the scheduling of this series again.

Posted by: kate on November 4, 2006 4:48 PM

Kate re ordering Veronica Mars Series 2 - I had the same problem with Channel 10 so I downloaded it - when will free to air channels realise that viewers have alot more choices these days and don't need to rely on them anymore - especially when they treat their viewers with contempt.

Posted by: Nic on November 4, 2006 7:44 PM

So the number one TV show watched by the young and groovy is a cooking progam?

Posted by: bobmar28 on November 5, 2006 7:21 AM

i noticed channel 10 has taken Monk off on sat night, how badly did that rate and do you think they will play it over summer?

Tribal Mind replies: Yes. For ratings, see my answer to an earlier question on the same subject.

Posted by: haley on November 5, 2006 4:05 PM

what seven should do to build up thier numbers is show the first episode of the new season for their big hits - Lost, Desperate Housewives, Greys, Prison Break etc
with these shows for the past 2 years (for lost and dh's at least) they have shown them before the raitings period starts and so are not counted anyway, if they showed them now they woild get big numbers and when they start them early next year people will still watch them again for a refresher, plus it is a week before ratings start so it wont matter if the full audience does not watch the first episode they could do this say on a monday/tuesday night over the next few weeks showing 1 or 2 show each week.

Posted by: Original Dan on November 5, 2006 4:41 PM

Would someone please give a newbie a step by step guide to : (a) how to hook up a lappy to a tv to play downloaded torrents , do you have to burn them to a data disc with Nero first , and what cable to ask for at Dick Smith's , where does it hook in to the tv and laptop ?
(b)How to burn torrents to what kind of blank dvd , what programme to use , and how to , so I could play them through my dvd player to watch on tv ?
I would appreciate any help , assume I know nothing , lol , be gentle with me .

Tribal Mind replies: Jane, I have moved your question to the new ratings blog (www.smh.com.au/sit), since you are more likely to get answers there. This week's blog is finished.